Another item included in my holiday gift packages was bags of hot cocoa mix. This may have been my favorite thing in the bags, as it was very cute and festive but only took about 5 minutes to put together. I did try some of it myself and was definitely impressed with the flavor. It completely dissolved into the liquid for a very smooth drink, which is great because I have tasted far too many powdered hot chocolates that simply would not blend into the liquid – yuck! I also made some super cute peppermint stirrers to go with this, but unfortunately I never photographed them. I think a lot of variations could be made by mixing in crushed peppermint, vanilla bean seeds, butterscotch or caramel chips, etc. Use your imagination! I embossed a snowflake onto these plain white bags for a more festive presentation.

Directions:Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Whisk together until evenly blended. Portion into gift packages as desired, and top each with a handful of mini-marshmallows.

Attach tags with the following instructions: “Mix 4-5 heaping tablespoons of cocoa mix with very warm water or milk to achieve desired flavor. Top with mini marshmallows and garnish with peppermint stirrer. Enjoy!”

I really enjoy your food blog & all the nice idea’s & recipes you include on your blog. I’d like to take this time to wish you, your husband & Baby Boy a joyous holiday. I’m sure your enjoying his very 1’st x-mas. I’m a wife & Mom of a 10 year old girl. Merry Christmas! Christine